Golfers prepare for battle in Hill Country

Chalitha Pushpika 

By Shamseer Jaleel

The Sri Lanka Golf (SLG) Ranking Tournament - June is set to take centre stage on June 17–20 at the iconic Nuwara Eliya Golf Club (NEGC). Known for its lush, scenic surroundings and challenging course, the tournament promises a riveting display of talent as it brings together the crème de la crème of Sri Lankan amateur golf. A practice session for the golfers will be held on June 16.

Tee-off is expected at 7:30 a.m.

This tournament boasts an impressive lineup, featuring the top five Sri Lanka’s world amateur-ranked players, a rare occurrence that elevates the stakes and the anticipation surrounding the event.

Leading from the front is Reshan Algama, who is making a much-anticipated return to competitive golf after completing his academic activities at school.

Haroon Aslam, a promising talent currently doing his studies and a golfing career in the USA, is coming off a significant victory at the Golf Ranking Championship in Digana last month, and his form suggests he could be a formidable contender in the Hill Country too.

Seasoned amateurs Uchitha Ranasinghe and Chalitha Pushpika also grace the lineup. Both players have a wealth of experience and a track record of strong performances in previous tournaments, making them players to watch closely. The experienced Chanaka Perera, too, will eye a top finish after some inconsistent performances.

Adding youthful energy and enthusiasm to the mix is Yannik Kumara. Despite his youth, Kumara demonstrated his potential by finishing in fifth place in the last tournament.

Jevahn Sathasivam, who will tour Scotland along with Kaya Daluwatte, will also be in action in Nuwara Eliya. Meanwhile, sixteen-year-old Jacob Norton will make his debut at this event.

The NEGC, with its reputation for being one of the most challenging courses in Sri Lanka, sets the stage for a gripping contest. Known for its tricky putting greens and unpredictable weather conditions, the course tests every facet of a golfer’s skill, from precision and strategy to resilience and adaptability.

This event, organised and managed by SLG, exemplifies their commitment to promoting and developing golf in Sri Lanka. Their efforts in organising such high-calibre tournaments provide a platform for local talent to showcase their skills, gain exposure, and compete against top-tier opponents.